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We talk about random things happening at school and around town. Ryan slips his hand into mine under the table and gives it a squeeze. I squeeze back.

Wow, having a boyfriend is so much fun. No wonder Jenna and Jason can’t keep away from one another.

Ryan stabs his food, his mind seeming to travel somewhere. His eyes are a bit hollow, and I’m wondering if he’s thinking about whatever happened over a month ago.

I poke his hand with my finger. “You okay?”

Both Jenna and Jason stop talking and turn to him. He sinks a bit in his chair like he wants to disappear.

“I’m fine.”

Jenna smiles brightly. “So how did this happen, anyway?”

Ryan and I glance at one another. “I don’t know,” I tell her. “It just did.” I look at my brother. “Don’t be like Dad and treat my boyfriend like a criminal.”

Jason holds up his hands. “Nope. Ryan’s a good dude. And speaking of Dad, are you going to tell him about…?” He nods to Ryan.

I groan. “Ugh, I’ll have to. I mean, it’s not like I can hide anything from him. But I’m not thinking about that now.”

Jenna’s eyes sweep the area. “Everyone’s staring at our table.”

I follow her gaze. She’s right. Everyoneisstaring at us, specifically Ryan. I shrug. “Let them stare, I don’t care. And if word gets out that we’re together, then whatever.”

Ryan gives my hand another squeeze. Is that his equivalent of a smile?

Someone is shooting flaming arrows at me from the right corner of the cafeteria, and when I turn my head, I find none other than Brianne Crawford glaring at me. Ugh, again? Seriously? That girl needs to obsess over something else.

I turn away from her, not giving her another second of my time.

***

Ryan and I spent a few hours after school at the bookstore, where I picked out all my favorites for him to read. He told me he’ll read as much as he can tonight. Wow, he’s being very dedicated. It’s so…cute. I like it. I think my feelings for him grow with each passing day. I bet it won’t be long before I…

Love him?

Oh my gosh.

There’s a soft tap on my door before Jason steps inside and drops down on my bed. “Hey.”

I give him a curious look. “What’s up?”

He shakes his head. “I’m just happy for you. About Ryan and everything. I know you’ve liked him for a while.”

I squint at hm. “You’re being weird.”

He holds up his hands. “He’s a good guy.”

“Uh huh.”

“What? I’m just telling you he’ll be a good boyfriend.”

“Okay? I mean, I know that. That’s why I’m with him…?”

He nods slowly. “But if he ever hurts you, tell me and I’ll kill him.”

I roll my eyes.

“Just promise me.”